How to care for a small mouse? - briefly
Provide a spacious cage with solid flooring, fresh bedding, and a balanced diet of commercial mouse pellets supplemented by occasional fruits, vegetables, and protein sources; ensure constant access to clean water and perform a thorough cleaning of the enclosure at least once a week.
How to care for a small mouse? - in detail
A suitable enclosure for a pet mouse should provide at least 10 × 10 × 12 inches of floor space per animal, with solid flooring and a secure lid. Use chew‑resistant bars spaced no more than ½ inch apart to prevent escape. Line the floor with dust‑free, absorbent bedding such as shredded paper or aspen shavings; replace soiled material weekly.
Nutrition requires a balanced mouse mix formulated for small rodents, supplemented with occasional fresh vegetables (carrot, broccoli, cucumber) and a small piece of fruit (apple, banana) no more than twice a week. Provide a constant supply of clean, filtered water in a sipper bottle; check the bottle daily for leaks and refill as needed.
Enrichment promotes natural behaviors and reduces stress. Include:
- A solid wooden block or chew stick for dental health.
- A tunnel or PVC pipe for exploration.
- A running wheel with a diameter of at least 8 cm to allow full stride.
- Small hides made of untreated wood or cardboard.
Health monitoring focuses on coat condition, activity level, and waste. Look for signs of hair loss, wet spots, wheezing, or abnormal droppings. Schedule a veterinary check‑up at least once a year; seek immediate care if the mouse shows lethargy, weight loss, or respiratory distress.
Cleaning protocol: spot‑clean droppings and wet bedding daily; perform a full cage change every two weeks, washing all accessories with mild, unscented soap and rinsing thoroughly. Disinfect the cage with a diluted vinegar solution (1 part vinegar to 4 parts water) before adding fresh bedding.
Handling should be gentle and brief at first, allowing the mouse to become accustomed to the scent of the caretaker’s hands. Support the body with both hands, avoid squeezing, and limit sessions to 2–3 minutes until the animal shows calm behavior.
By maintaining appropriate housing, diet, enrichment, hygiene, and health surveillance, a small mouse can thrive in a domestic environment.